In a recent HoopsHype ranking, Indiana Pacers star Pascal Siakam was ranked as the second-best power forward next season, only behind Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Though there is no denying that the Cameroon native is crucial to Indiana's success, especially for next season, this ranking is still a bit controversial. Frank Urbina ranked Siakam ahead of guys like Paolo Banchero, Evan Mobley, and perhaps most surprisingly, Anthony Davis, who ranked three spots lower than the Pacers star.
There is a lot to like about Siakam's outlook in Indiana next season. With Tyrese Haliburton out and Myles Turner gone, he should be in line for the biggest role of his stint with the team up to this point.
With next year looking a bit bleak for the Pacers, it is not likely that they are going to make a deep playoff run, if they even make the postseason at all. However, they have shown no indication that they are just going to give up and tank. Indiana is still going to try to remain competitive, even given their situation. However, in order for them to do so, they need everyone on the team to step up, and that especially includes Siakam.
Pascal Siakam may take another leap next season
Ever since the Pacers traded for Siakam in 2024, he has constantly established himself as one of the team's most important players. The former NBA Champion is crucial to Indiana's success, and it is fair to say they don't make the Finals last season without him.
He may not be the flashiest player, even in a system as fast-paced as the Pacers', but Siakam provides a ton of value on the court.
Siakam is arguably the Pacers' most consistent player, and this showed multiple times during the team's most recent playoff run. Additionally, he elevates the team in every area of the game, and it also helps that he has championship experience. If the Pacers want to continue to succeed and establish themselves as legitimate title contenders, they will need to continue to rely on the 31-year-old, especially next season.
As it stands, it is highly likely that Siakam will take on a significantly bigger role for the Pacers, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. As Indiana looks to navigate through life without Haliburton for a season, they will need as much help as possible to generate points, which is where Siakam enters the equation.
The three-time All-Star will likely become the focal point of Indiana's offense amid all the changes they are making. Currently, it is looking like Andrew Nembhard will slide over to the point guard role full-time, and Bennedict Mathurin will be right next to him in the starting backcourt. Additionally, with the Pacers' center situation looking grim, the team will need Siakam to step up to keep them afloat.
Siakam was already a great player for the Pacers, but he could be in line for his best season in a long time. While there is not a lot going right for Indiana at the moment, they still have a lot to look forward to next season, and that includes seeing what Siakam has in store in a bigger role.